Locorotondo

Locorotondo is known for its wines and for its round historical centre, from which derives its name, meaning "Round place". It was in fact built on a circular plan with narrow concentric streets lined with white terraced houses. The beauty of the historic centre is represented by this labyrinth of white alleys, jealously guarded by their inhabitants. The houses end with the unusual pitched roofs called "cummerse", a feature typical of the historical centre of Locorotondo.

The foundation of a town dates back to around 1000 AD as an unfortified hamlet under the jurisdiction of the Benedictine monastery of St. Stephen in Monopoli. The estate of various feudal lords for 500 years, it saw an increase in population, housing development, and the construction of the walls and castle. The Caracciolo family, Dukes of Martina Franca and the last feudal lords, remained in Locorotondo until the beginning of the 19th century.

Locorotondo along with Martina Franca and Cisternino overlooks the Valley of Itria, a depression densely populated with trulli.

Looking at the town from the outside one can easily see the majestic Mother Church of S. Giorgio built between 1790 and 1825 that must be seen together with the church of S. Maria della Greca built by the Prince of Taranto in the Gothic style.